Current Affairs Quiz - October, 2024

Notes:
The Negro River, a main tributary of the Amazon, recently dropped to its lowest level in 122 years. It is one of the largest tributaries of the Amazon River and one of the world’s largest rivers by discharge. Originating from eastern Colombia, it flows through Colombia, Venezuela, and Brazil before joining the Amazon at Manaus. The river spans about 1,400 miles, with 850 miles in Brazil. The river was named “Negro” for its dark water due to decomposed organic matter and tannins. It is the world’s largest blackwater river. The Central Amazon Ecological Corridor, a giant protected area, surrounds it.

Notes:
The World Health Organization (WHO) approved the Alinity m MPXV assay, a real-time PCR test for mpox. This test detects the virus using swabs from skin lesions, providing immediate results. It helps health workers confirm suspected mpox cases quickly, aiding outbreak control. Mpox has caused over 800 deaths in 16 African countries this year, with limited testing contributing to its spread. The Alinity m MPXV assay is the first mpox test on the WHO’s Emergency Use Listing (EUL) for faster availability during health emergencies. Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease that spreads through human contact and infected animals.

Notes:
The Assam government has launched the ‘Nijut Moina’ scheme to combat child marriage and support girl students in pursuing higher studies. The scheme provides monthly stipends: Rs 1,000 for Classes 11-12, Rs 1,250 for degree students, and Rs 2,500 for post-graduate students. To qualify, students must attend classes regularly, demonstrate discipline, perform well in exams, and delay marriage until after completing their post-graduation. This initiative aims to empower girls and promote education in Assam.

Notes:
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched the ‘Sankalp’ initiative on 6 October 2024. The initiative aims to combat drug trafficking and aid the rehabilitation of drug addicts. It was announced at an event by Divya Jyoti Jagriti Sansthan in Shimla. A model de-addiction and rehabilitation center will be established at Kotla Barog in Sirmaur district. The center will help drug addicts recover and reintegrate into society.

Notes:
Odisha has reported the presence of rare melanistic leopards, known as black panthers, in three forest divisions based on the All Odisha Leopard Estimation-2024. This species is particularly vulnerable to poaching, and the state is taking measures to protect them. The survey revealed a total of 696 leopards in Odisha, an increase from previous estimates, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts in the region, especially in the Similipal Tiger Reserve, which also houses unique Royal Bengal tigers.

Notes:
The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) suspended the membership of the National Zoological Park, or Delhi Zoo. The decision was due to concerns over the poor conditions of the lone African elephant at the zoo. WAZA is the global umbrella organization for zoos and aquariums, established in 1935. It represents the zoo and aquarium community worldwide. The organization’s mission focuses on animal care, environmental education, and global conservation. WAZA’s members include prominent zoos, aquariums, and regional associations, along with affiliate organizations like zoo veterinarians and educators.

Notes:
The Prime Minister of India recently launched an initiative named ‘Unified Genomic Chip’. It aims to assist farmers in identifying high-quality cattle early and improving dairy farming efficiency in India. The Unified Genomic Chip has two versions: the ‘Gau Chip’ for cattle and the ‘Mahish Chip’ for buffalo. Developed by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, the chip helps farmers make informed decisions by identifying young, high-quality bulls early. It is designed specifically for Indian cattle breeds, enhancing the quality of livestock and the dairy sector.

Notes:
Five Russian mountaineers recently died on an expedition on Mount Dhaulagiri. Mount Dhaulagiri is the seventh-highest mountain in the world, with an elevation of 8,167 meters (26,795 feet). It is located in west-central Nepal, part of the Himalayan range, and is the highest mountain entirely in Nepal. Known for snowy peaks and glaciers, Dhaulagiri means “white mountain” in Sanskrit. The first successful climb was by Swiss climber Max Eiselin in 1960. The mountain is challenging due to its tough terrain and unpredictable weather.

Notes:
The Ministry of Education launched the registration portal for the fifth phase of Yuva Sangam under Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat. Yuva Sangam aims to strengthen connections between youth from different states and union territories. Participants aged 18 to 30 can register on the portal. The registration deadline is the 21st of this month. During the Yuva Sangam tours, participants will receive exposure in five areas: Paryatan (Tourism), Parampara (Tradition), Pragati (Progress), Paraspar Sampark (Interconnection), and Prodyogiki (Technology) over 5-7 days.

Notes:
World Arthritis Day (WAD) is observed on October 12 to raise awareness about arthritis and rheumatic diseases. It aims to improve understanding of these conditions and their impact on daily life. The focus is on early diagnosis, self-management, and access to proper treatment. The theme for 2024 is “Informed Choices, Better Outcomes,” emphasizing improved access to information for people with rheumatic diseases in today’s digital age.